Kolkata, 21 February (H.S.) : In a politically significant development ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections, Bharatiya Janata Party Rajya Sabha MP Ananta Maharaj shared the stage with West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee at a state function marking International Mother Language Day. The event was held at Amar Ekushey Udyan in Deshapriya Park.
At the event, Banerjee conferred the prestigious “Banga Bibhushan” award on Maharaj, a prominent representative of the Rajbanshi community. He was felicitated with a ceremonial stole and presented with a commemorative memento, drawing considerable attention in political circles.
Addressing the gathering, Ananta Maharaj recited a poem composed by Rajbanshi icon Chila Rai in his mother tongue, underscoring his community identity and cultural roots. His decision to speak in Rajbanshi at a state-level function dedicated to linguistic heritage was seen as symbolically significant.
Banerjee and Maharaj have shared a politically nuanced relationship in recent months. Shortly after the Lok Sabha elections, the Chief Minister had visited Maharaj’s residence in Cooch Behar during her first tour of north Bengal, a move widely interpreted as a signal of shifting political equations.
Maharaj, once a vocal proponent of the Greater Cooch Behar statehood demand, had been backed by the Bharatiya Janata Party and nominated to the Rajya Sabha. However, after the Union government rejected the separate state demand, he publicly expressed dissatisfaction, fuelling speculation about growing distance between him and the party leadership.
Adding to the intrigue, Trinamool Congress leader Jagadish Barma Basunia, who won from Cooch Behar in the recent elections, had earlier stated that he received Maharaj’s support. Banerjee’s subsequent visit to Maharaj’s residence was viewed by many as a gesture of political outreach.
On Saturday, Maharaj’s presence beside the Chief Minister and his acceptance of the Banga Bibhushan honour have intensified speculation about his future political course. While expressing gratitude to Banerjee for the recognition, he also reiterated concerns over alleged neglect of north Bengal, particularly the Koch and Rajbanshi communities.
Later, speaking to reporters, Maharaj voiced disappointment with the Bharatiya Janata Party, alleging sustained neglect and lack of developmental initiatives in the region. With elections approaching, his political stance is likely to remain under close watch.
Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh
